An applause and an echo

The Carmichael Branch of the Sacramento Public Library held its annual Volunteer Appreciation Brunch today.  I've come to a new understanding about such events.  While I could easily skip it without worrying a bit about whether I'm appreciated or not, I'm not sure other volunteers feel the same way.  And I really feel strongly that some staff have no idea of the level of assistance provided by volunteers.  I've decided to try to attend the appreciation events if for no other reason than to encourage the powers that be that they should be continued.

Ironically, the theme for today's brunch was Hawaiian, loosely correlating to our recent vacation there.  The table decorations, leis, and other decor were cheap 99 cent versions of the real things that we have been experiencing the past two weeks.  The food had nothing to do with the theme.  It was staff  pot luck and wonderful.  The program was a short presentation of authentic Hawaiian chants and hulas presented by a local historical and cultural preservation organization.  Rather than grass skirts, the dancers (all women) wore mu'us like those in the recital program we saw our first weekend in Kauai.

Carmichael Branch Friends President Frank Quadros is enjoying the program and the festive decor.

Carmichael staffers Rhonda and Natalie enjoy the program while Rhonda's daughter accompanies the hula dancers' "Tiny Bubbles".

And here are the people who really wanted to hula but couldn't get the courage to walk up to the front of the room for real assistance.  They're all library staffers.

Thanks Carmichael Branch Library and Branch Friends for a fun party and good food.